Lancet study highlights the growing concern around chronic kidney disease
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is common and ranks among the leading causes of mortality and morbidity, says a Lancet study as it finds that cases of kidney disease have doubled since 1990 and now are affecting close to 800 million people worldwide. "Most people had stage 1–3 CKD, with a combined prevalence of 13·9% (13·1–15·0). In 2023, CKD was the ninth leading cause of death globally, accounting for 1·48 million (1·30–1·65) deaths," the report adds. "Impaired kidney function as a risk factor accounted for 11·5% (8·4–14·5) of cardiovascular deaths. High fasting plasma glucose, body-mass index, and systolic blood pressure were all leading risk factors for CKD DALYs," it added.
India has one of the highest numbers of people affected by CKD
"The countries with the highest number of individuals with CKD in 2023 were China (152 million; 142–164) and India (138 million; 129–148), with the USA, Indonesia, Japan, Brazil, Russia, Mexico, Nigeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Iran, the Philippines, Viet Nam, Thailand, and Türkiye all having more than 10 million adults with CKD," the report says.
Risk factors of kidney disease
High fasting plasma glucose, high systolic blood pressure, high BMI, and non-optimal temperature are the main risk factors of CKD. The number of CKD DALYs attributable to a risk factor rose with each increasing decade in age from 20 to 69 years. The rise with age was strongest for high systolic blood pressure, which overtook BMI at age 70 years, while high fasting plasma glucose remained the highest contributor to CKD DALYs at all ages, the researchers found.
CKD is mostly asymptomatic at early stage
CKD rarely causes symptoms in its earliest stages. As the condition progresses, potential early symptoms can include:
Fatigue and low energy levels
Swelling in the legs, feet, ankles, or hands due to fluid retention (known as edema)
Changes in urination: urinating more or less often than usual, or noticing foamy urine
Poor appetite, nausea, or vomiting
Itchy or dry skin from waste buildup
Muscle cramps or aches
Difficulty concentrating or sleep problems
Unintentional weight loss
Shortness of breath due to fluid accumulation (especially in more advanced stages)
Most people with CKD do not notice symptoms until the disease is advanced. Regular urine testing and management of risk factors (such as high blood pressure and diabetes) are key, as early intervention with medications and lifestyle changes can slow disease progression and help prevent serious complications.
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